![OOD Works Newsletter](https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/OHOOD/2023/08/8023459/ood-works-header-1024x288-final-new-002-original_original.png) |
![Miss Wheelchair Ohio smiling at the camera wearing a tiara and holding a bouquet of flowers.](https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/OHOOD/2024/05/9431011/gabby_original.png)
When Gabrielle “Gabby” Kozinsi rolls into the room, her spirit is as unstoppable as her drive for advocacy. Join us as Ms. Wheelchair Ohio 2024 shares about her refusal to be confined by cerebral palsy or social barriers. Her mission? To enlighten children on the importance of embracing people with disabilities, a lesson she shares from her firsthand experiences. To learn more, visit the Ms. Wheelchair Ohio website, Gabby’s Facebook page, or email Gabby.
With support from Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD), Gabby has worked in the community and hopes to eventually work with children. Her involvement in the Special Olympics as a cheerleader symbolizes her dedication to challenging stereotypes and building a community where individuals with disabilities are celebrated for their abilities.
Gabby shares about her journey in OOD Works Podcast episode 53. Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts by searching "OOD Works." Transcripts and MP3 files are available at ood.ohio.gov/podcast.
![Two men wearing business attire sitting behind a news desk and smiling at the camera.](https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/OHOOD/2024/05/9431038/wbns-10_original.png) OOD Director Kevin L. Miller recently appeared on “Face the State” on WBNS 10TV (April 28, 2024). Tune in to hear him discuss OOD's programs, services, and initiatives, including Accessible Ohio. Watch the on-demand episode starting at 11:45 to learn more.
![Various school and office supplies scattered across a white desk.](https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/OHOOD/2024/05/9431027/taw_original.png)
Join us in recognizing Teacher Appreciation Week from May 6-10, 2024, as we express deep appreciation for the dedication and impact of educators in shaping young minds.
OOD partners with schools across the state to help young people with disabilities acquire the necessary skills and support to enter the workforce successfully. Young people with disabilities or other barriers to employment may face unique challenges in transitioning from school to work. OOD provides services such as career counseling, job training, and support services tailored to their individual needs, empowering them to achieve independence and self-sufficiency. By intervening early and providing targeted assistance, these programs can maximize the potential for young people to lead fulfilling and productive lives.
Last year, OOD assisted 18,972 young people with disabilities through programs and partnerships including the Ohio Transition Support Partnership, career-technical education, Pre-Employment Transition Services, Summer Youth Work Experiences, and Ohio College2Careers. Learn more about how OOD supports students with disabilities at our Student Services webpage.
![Assistive Technology of Ohio demonstration van parked in a lot.](https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/OHOOD/2024/05/9431028/osu-van_original.png) Assistive Technology of Ohio demonstration van.
April 17, 2024 was Assistive Technology Awareness Day as proclaimed by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted. Assistive technology helps individuals with disabilities succeed through creative solutions for health, safety, and greater independence.
Assistive Technology of Ohio is a federally funded nonprofit organization that is part of the College of Engineering at The Ohio State University. Their mission is to help Ohioans with disabilities learn about or acquire assistive technology: devices, equipment, or services that assist individuals with disabilities in functioning independently in the areas of work, home, or school. Learn more at ATOhio.org.
The Crescent-News, 5-1-24
Springfield News-Sun, 5-1-24
Northwest Signal, 4-30-24
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